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Holiday Travel Tips

What you need to know before you go...

By Dawn Henthorn, About.com

© FlaUSA.com
Despite color codes that reflect threats of terrorism, Americans have pretty much resumed their customary travel patterns. That includes many that take to the road on holiday weekends.

Every holiday, AAA Auto Club South projects that millions of Americans travel more than 50 miles from home. Many of those take to the highways. Therefore, travelers should be reminded to drive carefully and courteously.

If you are traveling in Florida, whether on vacation or a long weekend, pave the way to a smooth trip with these timely tips and bits of information...

Driving Information & Tips

  • New Exit Numbers - In January, 2002 the Florida Department of Transportation began the task of changing the exit numbers of Interstate highways from consecutive numbers to mile-post numbers. For two years the exit signs displayed both numbers, but now this change may prove confusing to drivers using old maps or billboard directions that have yet to be changed.
  • Move Over - Drivers are required now by law to "move over" or "slow down" when approaching an authorized emergency vehicle stopped on a Florida highway. On highways with two lanes in the same direction, vehicles must vacate the lane closest to the emergency vehicle. On highways with just one lane in each direction, drivers must slow down to 20 miles under the posted speed limit.
  • Click-it or Ticket - Florida law is clear that all front seat passengers MUST buckle their seat belts, even if the automobile is equipped with air bags. All children under the age of 16 MUST use a seatbelt while riding anywhere in the vehicle. Also, you may now be ticketed for not complying with any of these restraint laws.

Safety Tips

  • Holiday Safety - General safety tips on drinking, violence, hotels, and the beach. Sun Safety - The weekend forecast for the UV Index is a 10, which is extremely high. Prevention is the key to avoiding scorching sunburns, and there's more to it than just applying sunscreen – see details.
  • Heat Stress - Central Florida temperatures are forecasted to be in the high 80s and low 90s during the Memorial Day weekend. In Florida, more people die from excessive heat than from lightning. Know heat stress symptoms and treatment before you travel.
  • Lightning Safety - You should get off the beach when a thunderstorm threatens – see details.

Florida Travel Planning

  • Florida Vacation Travel Guide
      Use this handy guide to plan your next Florida vacation. Everything you need is right here in the Florida Travel Planner and your Florida guide is as close as your email.
  • Dawn's Deals
      Travel deals to help you s-t-r-e-t-c-h your travel dollar! Discounts, coupons, freebies, senior and theme park deals.
  • Florida Beach Guide
      Florida has some of the best beaches in the world. No matter where you are in Florida, there is a beach just a short drive away – from the Panhandle to the Keys and every place in between. Find everything "beachy" here – favorite beach destinations, photos, cams, what to pack, sun safety, and even how to build a sand castle!
  • Florida Disabled Traveler Guide
      Whatever your special need – wheelchair access, special transportation, TDD (Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf), signers, interpreters, or special medical equipment – you'll find it here.
  • Canine Travel Tips
      Florida's sun can be no fun for Fido. Get the inside scoop on traveling with your canine companion – including poochie packing tips.

Explore Florida Travel

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